It's All about the Communication

The biggest reason I chose to come to BU for my master's was the quality of the program itself and the communication school's solid reputation. I also chose it because I sensed there was great community and school spirit. I really appreciate the efforts the communications program put forth for its graduate students - I receive countless emails, newsletters, and event offerings every week. The resources and opportunities are there, it is simply a matter of taking them when offered. I also love the fact that one of my professors always offers to make "coffee dates" if we want to talk about any particular issue further than the class discussion. I don't know that I will be taking him up on that offer, but it's a completely different approach than my undergraduate experience. Office hours and email communications were the extent of their availability, for the most part. Also, even though I work full-time and am used to being treated as an adult, I still find it nice that the faculty and COM staff want to interact with us outside of the classroom and not just as students - I have already been to a Red Sox game and bar crawl with COM staff, and am planning to be at karaoke night next week. I’m confident the professional relationships and friendships formed will be a big part of my lasting memories from this program.

Undergrads vs. Grads

It is becoming easier and easier to tell the difference between an undergraduate student and a graduate student as I spend more time on the BU campus. Normally, I have a tough time guessing ages, which is probably a good thing. I am on the older end age wise of my peers in the PR program, but it is still apparent that even the 21-year-olds who are grad students are older than the 20-year-old undergraduates. The most telling factor is the apparant attitude difference. Undergraduates walk around with an almost pained expression on their faces, as if they have the weight of the world on their shoulders. Slumped over, carrying a backpack, they look less than thrilled to be in an academic building. A fair number of the students in the COM program are probably not sure they will pursue a career path in the field, or are there to fill elective requirements. I usually receive a blank stare when looking into the eyes of the kids in the hallways, trying to smile even though it is not returned. In contrast, most of the grad students I have met, while they may physically look tired, are happy people and engaging. They want to be there. Most grads are carrying coffee and food on their way to a lecture, energizing themselves for the next few hours in order to be active participants. I'm sure part of the difference lies in maturity, but there is something to be said for assuredness and confidence when a person knows what they want to study, or practice as a career. Their enthusiasm is infectious and is obvious to observers.